RA fatigue

[masonman]

Hi everyone, has anybody experienced overwhelming fatigue following a Rituximab infusion?

I have had five previous infusions with no side effects

but totally wiped out this time, all suggestions appreciated.

Thanks

[3LittleBirds2]

Hello Masonman, yes I have!! I’ve just had my fourth cycle and I’m completely shattered..have just woken up after falling asleep on the sofa! I usually feel tired afterwards but nothing like this normally.

I’ve put it down to Xmas, late nights and doing all the preparation but it feels more than that..I have absolutely no energy!! This is the first time I’ve had Rituximab in the winter also usually done in spring/summer.. so didn’t know if it was down to that also.

I hope it improves soon!! Best wishes 😊

[masonman in reply to 3LittleBirds2]

Thank you for our advice, much appreciated

[NeonkittyUK]

Yes I've had a couple out of six sessions of treatment which have made me feel so tired I felt I needed matchsticks to keep my eyes open and felt very lethargic and I've usually got loads of energy. I have felt more tired afterwards when I've had the infusions in the summer. The tiredness lasted 3 to 4 weeks.

[jojo_71]

Hi masonman

I'm in my 5th Yr of having twice yrly infusions. Am always wiped out the actual day, but not too bad after.. Maybe the iv steroids help the fatigue, as I always respond well to steroids anyway?

I do hear other patients saying they get tired though, but could it be a virus?

Take care

Jo x

[masonman in reply to jojo_71]

Hi JOJO, yes there is a virus called PML, but I don't have all of the symptoms for that, thanks for the advice.

[Tessthomy]

Hi I’m having 1st of 2nd round of rituximab now as I type. It didn’t work to full capacity back in June .. can any tell me if it worked better after 2nd round? My consultant seems to think it will fingers crossed

[3LittleBirds2 in reply to Tessthomy]

Hi Tess..it was the same with me and I definitely had more relief from the second round! Good luck 😊

[Tessthomy in reply to 3LittleBirds2]

Sounds good thank you 🤞🤞

[anastasia43]

I was super sleepy and tired for the day of and the day after the infusion, but supposedly that was because of the antihistamine premedication. Other than that didn't feel too different, still waiting for it to show some signs of working, but I've only been through my first round of two infusions so far. Good luck to you!

[masonman in reply to anastasia43]

Thanks for your help, I have found Rituximab the most effective of all, hopefully it will be the same for you, take care.